Game cover crops will only reach full potential if they are well managed.
Below some general considerations are highlighted which will help you ensure your game cover crop is successul.
Cultivations
A well prepared seed bed is essential for crop health and development.
Generally, ploughing and rapid consolidation to conserve moisture is the ideal start.
Moisture retention is very important.
Ensure the seed bed is fine and firm, this will reduce the risk of slug activity.
Drilling
Where possible we recommend drilling game cover crops. This ensures accurate seed depth and row width and will also improve bird holding and driving capability.
Weed Control
The stale seed bed technique is a well proven weed control system.
i.e. Early cultivation
Encourage seeds to germinate
Spray weeds approximatley 1 week before sowing
This technique is very useful where mixtures are grown and no herbicide can be recommended.
